NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm AIO RGB CPU Liquid Cooler User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm AIO RGB CPU Liquid Cooler. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and use to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your product.

The NZXT Kraken Z Series offers advanced liquid cooling with a customizable LCD display, allowing for personalized aesthetics and real-time system monitoring. It features an improved pump design and Aer P 140mm radiator fans for efficient and quiet cooling.

Package Contents

Verify that all components are present in your package:

• NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm AIO Liquid Cooler (Pump and Radiator Assembly)
• Two (2) Aer P 140mm Radiator Fans
• Mounting Hardware for Intel and AMD Sockets (LGA 1200, 115X, 1366, 2011, 2011-3, 2066, AM4, sTRX4*, TR4*)
• USB Cable for CAM Software Connectivity
• Fan Splitter Cable
• Installation Guide

*Note: Threadripper bracket not included.

Setup and Installation

Before beginning installation, ensure your system is powered off and unplugged. Refer to the detailed Installation Manual (PDF) for visual guidance.

Pre-Installation Steps:

1. Prepare Your Motherboard: Install the appropriate backplate and standoffs for your CPU socket (Intel or AMD).
2. Apply Thermal Paste: The cooler comes with pre-applied thermal paste. If you prefer to use your own, clean the CPU surface thoroughly before application.

Mounting the Radiator and Fans:

The 280mm radiator can be mounted to compatible fan mounts in your PC case. Common locations include the front, top, or rear of the case, depending on your case's design and available space.

• Attach the two 140mm Aer P fans to the radiator using the provided screws. Ensure the fan airflow direction is appropriate for your case's cooling strategy (intake or exhaust).
• Secure the radiator assembly to your chosen mounting location in the PC case.

Image: NZXT Kraken Z63 280mm AIO Liquid Cooler with two 140mm fans attached to the radiator, showcasing the pump with its customizable LCD display.

Installing the Pump:

1. Carefully align the pump over the CPU, ensuring the mounting brackets engage with the standoffs.
2. Secure the pump to the CPU socket using the thumb screws. Tighten in a cross pattern for even pressure.
3. Connect the pump's power cable to the CPU_FAN or AIO_PUMP header on your motherboard.
4. Connect the USB cable from the pump to an available internal USB 2.0 header on your motherboard. This is essential for CAM software control.
5. Connect the radiator fans to the fan splitter cable, and then connect the splitter cable to the appropriate fan header on your motherboard or directly to the pump's fan header if available.

Image: Close-up of the NZXT Kraken Z63 pump head with its LCD display showing '32 Liquid' temperature, highlighting the customizable screen.

The pump can be rotated to fit the needs of your motherboard without affecting the direction of the logo or image on the LCD display.

Operating Instructions

Software Control (NZXT CAM):

The NZXT Kraken Z63 is controlled and customized via the NZXT CAM software. Download the latest version from the official NZXT website (nzxt.com/cam).

• Performance Monitoring: CAM allows you to monitor CPU and GPU temperatures, fan speeds, pump speed, and other system metrics in real-time.
• Customizable LCD Display: Use CAM to upload your favorite images and animated GIFs to the 2.36" LCD screen. You can also display system information like CPU temperature, liquid temperature, or fan speeds directly on the screen.
• Cooling Profiles: Create and manage custom fan curves and pump speeds to optimize cooling performance and noise levels. Choose from preset modes (e.g., Silent, Performance) or create your own.
• RGB Control: If you have other NZXT RGB components, CAM can synchronize lighting effects across your system.

Image: The NZXT Kraken Z63 pump head displaying a rocket icon on its LCD screen, demonstrating the customizable display feature.

Initial Power-On:

After installation, power on your system. The cooler's pump and fans should begin operating. Install the NZXT CAM software to gain full control and customization options.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your liquid cooler.

• Dust Cleaning: Periodically clean dust from the radiator fins and fan blades using compressed air. Dust buildup can impede airflow and reduce cooling efficiency.
• Fan Inspection: Check fan blades for any obstructions or damage. Ensure fans are securely mounted.
• Tubing Inspection: Inspect the rubber tubing for any signs of kinks, leaks, or damage. The fine nylon mesh sleeves strengthen the tubing to protect from leaks.
• Software Updates: Keep your NZXT CAM software updated to the latest version to benefit from performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features.
• Thermal Paste: While the pre-applied thermal paste is durable, consider reapplying high-quality thermal paste every few years for sustained optimal thermal transfer.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your NZXT Kraken Z63, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Cooler Not Detected by CAM:
  • Ensure the internal USB 2.0 cable is securely connected to both the pump and the motherboard.
  • Try a different internal USB 2.0 header on your motherboard.
  • Reinstall the NZXT CAM software.
  • Check your motherboard's BIOS settings to ensure USB headers are enabled.
• High CPU Temperatures:
  • Verify the pump is securely mounted and making good contact with the CPU.
  • Check if the pump is running (you may feel a slight vibration or hear a faint hum).
  • Ensure radiator fans are spinning and oriented correctly for airflow.
  • Clean any dust buildup on the radiator fins.
  • Confirm that the CPU_FAN or AIO_PUMP header is providing sufficient power and is configured correctly in BIOS.
• LCD Display Not Working / Flickering:
  • Ensure the USB connection to the pump is stable.
  • Update or reinstall NZXT CAM software.
  • Check for any loose cables connected to the pump.
• Excessive Noise:
  • Adjust fan and pump speeds in NZXT CAM to a quieter profile.
  • Ensure fans are securely mounted and not vibrating against the case.
  • Check for air bubbles in the loop (though rare in AIOs, tilting the case can sometimes help dislodge them).

For further assistance, please visit the official NZXT support website or consult the User Guide (PDF) or User Manual (PDF).

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The NZXT Kraken Z Series is backed by a 6-year warranty, providing peace of mind regarding its performance and reliability.

For technical support, warranty claims, or additional resources, please visit the official NZXT support website: nzxt.com/support.

You can also refer to the official documentation:

• Installation Manual (PDF)
• User Guide (PDF)
• User Manual (PDF)